What do pet parents want to see in a sitter profile?

Whether you’re new to our wonderful community (hello!) or a seasoned sitter with a plethora of pet sits to your name, it's always a sound idea to regularly review your sitter profile - and make it as perfect as can be.

And who better to help you build the perfect sitter profile, than our pet parent members themselves? That’s right - we’ve listened to a handful of our trusty pet parent members to find out exactly what they’re looking for in a sitter's profile - and here they are. Consider it your pet sitter profile cheat sheet (you can thank us later).

All about you…

Your introduction

Our pet parent members will be trusting you with their most prized possession and beloved furry friends - so understandably, they'll want to get to know you as a person. 

This is your chance to let pet parents know all about you, what you do for a living, your hobbies and interests, and what you like doing most in your spare time (other than hanging out with cute pets, ofc). If you work from home, for example, this is a great selling point to mention as it lets pet parents know that you’ll be home chilling with (and having your work calls interrupted by…) their furry friends for most of the day. 

Pictures of you (with pets!)

This is a biggie! It goes without saying that pet parents want to know you’re just pet-fanatic as they are - and our members told us that pictures with pets are one of the main things they look for when it comes to choosing a sitter. 

Pick friendly, welcoming pet sitting pictures that show off your love of pets - think pictures cuddled up with previous kitty companions, and all those stellar dog selfies lurking in your camera reel. While we’re on the topic, take a look at our blog on social media etiquette for sitters for all the do’s and don’ts when it comes to sharing your photos online. 

Why do you want to house and pet sit? 

Naturally, pet parents want to know your heart is in the right place. So, share what it is you hope to gain from spending time with pets in new places. Whether you’re recently retired and looking for a fulfilling way to make the most of your freedom, or just love pets but (due to renting or other life commitments) can’t have any of your own right now, be upfront and try to create a connection. For example, why not talk about how pet sitting helps you feel closer to your beloved childhood pet? Or share another anecdote that will show owners you're just as much of a pet person as they are.

Your experience…

Pets you've cared for in the past

Are you a canine connoisseur, a kitty whisperer, an equine expert? Naturally, pet parents want to know their fur babies are in the safest hands around - and this is your chance to wax lyrical about the animals you've cared for in the past. 

In your profile and house sitting application message, mention things like if you're able to groom animals or administer medications, if you’ve got experience caring for certain kinds of pets (like specific breeds, puppies, older pets, or less mainstream animals), or animals with certain traits (such as nervousness or pets with separation anxiety).

Don't worry if you don't yet have a string of house sits under your belt - ever owned a pet in the past, worked around office dogs, or fed next door's kitty while they were away? These can all be great points to mention!

Home care

Of course, pets are always the priority - that goes without saying. But maybe you’re also a dab-hand gardener who'll be happy to keep the pet parents' plants thriving whilst they're away? Or perhaps you’re a clean king or queen that could even give the likes of Mrs. Hinch a run for her money! Anything relevant you can add to your profile is sure to give you some sought-after brownie points.

Your preferences…

Preferred pets and homes

It’s always a good idea to stay open-minded and flexible when it comes to finding a sit - especially if you’re a new or first-time sitter just starting out. But to help pet parents get to know you a little better, and to help you both on your way to finding the perfect match, it can be useful to share a bit about where you'd like to house sit, or what kind of pets you're most interested in caring for.

Trust and safety…

References

When speaking to our pet parent members, there was one very important thing that came up time and time again: references. 

References from people whose pets you’ve cared for in the past are a great way to give pet parents the reassurance they need to let you look after their furry family. And - can we let you into a little secret? Our data wizards told us that having at least 3 references on your profile can boost your chances of securing a sit by 20%(!)

Add those final flourishes…

Done all of the above, and still wondering what you can add to your sitter profile that’ll have pet parents pounding on your (virtual) door? Try these on for size:

• Profile headline: stand out from the pack with a short, snappy headline that will catch a pet parent’s attention.
• Add any other sitters: anyone else coming along for the ride? If you’re house sitting as a couple, with friends, or with family, don’t forget to add them (plus some photos) to your profile.
• Your preferred locations: add the locations you’d most like to travel to and we’ll recommend sits you’re sure to adore (it’ll also help owners see whether their home is right for you!).

House sitting etiquette for sitters

Got your first pet sitting gig in the bag? Congrats! To make sure you're fully prepared and know what to expect, head on over to our blog where we've answered our members' most frequently asked questions on house sitting etiquette.